Manchester is globally recognised not only for its industrial and commercial heritage but also as a significant cultural hub, particularly in the realms of music. During the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st century, Manchester became the musical epicentre of Britain, birthing numerous iconic bands that defined entire eras. Among these was the group M People, which became a defining act of the 1990s. Their unique sound, blending soulful dance music with the pulsating energy of house, captivated audiences in Manchester and around the world. Thanks to their innovative style and unforgettable rhythms, M People not only epitomised the 1990s but also helped shape the future of dance music globally. Here’s more on their journey, as explored on manchester-trend.
Born in Manchester
The story of M People begins with Mike Pickering, a prominent DJ and musician in Manchester during the 1990s. His home base was the legendary nightclub The Haçienda. More than just a club, The Haçienda was a cultural phenomenon that played a pivotal role in the development of acid house and the “Madchester” movement.
As a DJ, Pickering keenly understood the rising popularity of house music, a genre rooted in underground club culture. Characterised by its repetitive beats and deep bass lines, house music also possessed an emotional depth that set it apart from other dance genres of the time. Inspired by this, Pickering envisioned something entirely new—melding house music with elements of soul and pop.
In 1990, Pickering joined forces with Paul Heard, a talented musician and songwriter from the acid-jazz band Ace of Clubs. Together, they embarked on a project to create more than just dance tracks; they aimed to produce music with depth and meaning. To achieve this, they sought out gifted collaborators and ultimately found Heather Small, a singer with an extraordinary voice. At the time, Small was performing with the English soul group Hot House, though her music career had yet to take off.
Rising to Fame
With their line-up complete, M People officially came to life in 1990.
The band’s name had a simple yet significant origin: the “M” stood for Mike Pickering, the group’s founder and visionary.
The group wasted no time, diving headfirst into creating their signature dance music. In 1991, they released their debut album Northern Soul. The album garnered critical acclaim and propelled M People to new heights. Tracks like How Can I Love You More? showcased the group’s immense talent and their innovative fusion of house beats with soulful lyrics.
However, it was their second album, Elegant Slumming, released in 1993, that catapulted M People to stardom. Featuring hits like One Night in Heaven and Moving on Up, the album became anthems of the 1990s. These tracks were omnipresent—on the radio, on television, and in nightclubs across the globe. They weren’t just dance tracks; they were vibrant, life-affirming songs. Heather Small’s distinctive voice, combined with the infectious grooves crafted by Pickering and Heard, resonated with audiences far beyond Manchester.
The success of Elegant Slumming was cemented when the album won the prestigious Mercury Prize in 1994. This accolade elevated M People to the ranks of Britain’s great bands and marked the beginning of an intensely creative period for the group. They continued to release hit after hit, with standout albums like Bizarre Fruit (1994) and Fresco (1997).
More Than Dance Music
M People was a defining force in the music industry of the 1990s.
What set them apart from other bands of the era was the depth and meaning in their music. While many dance groups focused solely on rhythm, M People infused their songs with emotion and purpose. Their lyrics often conveyed messages of hope, empowerment, and social awareness. Tracks like Search for the Hero and What Have You Done Today to Make You Feel Proud? encouraged listeners to reflect and aspire to greatness.
This approach resonated deeply, especially in the context of the early 1990s, a time of significant social and political change in Manchester and the UK.
Throughout their career, M People gained widespread acclaim for their distinctive style, which blended elements of rock with electronic experimentation. Despite changes in their line-up over the years, the group has maintained their authenticity and continued to create music that resonates with audiences across generations. Founded in early 1990s Manchester, the group remains active, touring internationally and performing in their hometown and other UK cities.
Their impact on the music industry extends far beyond their chart-topping hits. M People shaped the evolution of dance music, proving that it could be both soulful and meaningful, and they remain a symbol of Manchester’s rich musical legacy.
